News

Report this comment

"To clarify this Stagecoach are axing these routes. It is possible that some many be picked up and run on a commercial basis by other operators and some may be put out to contract by the local councils

There are likely to be further cuts to bus services. This is only the start. The major problem is the amount of funding the bus companies get for the Free bus passes is not adequate to fund the current level of services

May be an annual charge should be made for the passes. Those not paying tax say make no payment. Basic rate taxpayers say £50 a year. Higher rate taxpayers £70 a year"

* Your nameThis field is mandatory

* Your emailThis field is mandatory

Reason

Please note we will not accept reports with HTML tags or URLs in them.

Stagecoach cuts Gwent bus services

BLAENAU Gwent and Monmouthshire will bear the brunt of cuts to bus operator Stagecoach’s South Wales services, it was revealed today.

Stagecoach the changes are the result of “drastic cuts” in investment by the Welsh Government.

John Gould, Managing Director of Stagecoach in South Wales, said: “Make no mistake – ultimate responsibility for the loss of bus services and jobs lies firmly at the door of the Welsh Government following years of cuts to bus investment.

He said the company "deeply regrets" the impact this will have on their customers and communities. "Instead of protecting and supporting bus travel, ministers’ misguided decisions have dealt a body blow to the country’s public transport network and wider economy. People across Wales have repeatedly warned the government about the consequences of their actions, but sadly they have refused to listen.”

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “This is extremely disappointing news. The new reimbursement rate for operators in the concessionary bus fare scheme was set following an independent review to ensure operators such as Stagecoach were “no better and no worse off” by taking part.

"We continue to work with the Confederation of Passenger Transport to deliver a sustainable bus industry in Wales.”

Monmouthshire will see services between Newport, Underwood and Chepstow being withdrawn. In Blaenau Gwent the 30 from Brynmawr to Cwmbran is also being axed.

The company is also consulting with trade union representatives over the planned closure of its Brynmawr depot from July. The depot currently employs 77 staff and operates around 30 vehicles.